Apple could finally release its Vision Pro VR headset in March 2024 alongside its new iPad products, which is a little later than rumors previously estimated it would come out.
An industry insider, Mark Gurman claimed in his recent Power On newsletter that the tech giant's original plan to release its Vision Pro was in January 2024. However, the launch date was pushed back for reasons unknown.
Release Date for Apple's Vision Pro
In a separate report, Forbes suggested two potential reasons for the delay of the launch: Apple could want to conduct further "advanced device testing," and the company could still be hashing out the logistics of how it would distribute the VR headset.
The current plan is for the tech giant to release the Vision Pro in the United States first and have an international launch to specific nations later next year. There is currently no information about the global regions that would receive supplies of the VR headset.
However, Gurman has previously said that the United Kingdom and Canada are two possible locations that the Vision Pro would be sent to. Other reports said that Apple is expected to "sell the device by appointment only" at one of its in-person stores or online on its digital storefront, as per TechRadar.
Additionally, Apple's Vision Pro is slated to offer differently-sized headbands as well as prescription lenses so that all users can enjoy the mixed-reality experience. This would require retailers to stock up on hundreds of accessories for a headset that they could not be familiar with.
While it is disappointing for many customers eager to buy the Vision Pro to learn about its delayed release, the decision to push the date back does make sense. This is not only because Apple wants to do more testing of the product but also so that it could line up the launch with the release of other products.
Spring is typically a busy time for the company and the next season looks like it will be the same. In October, Gurman said that there would be new iPads coming out in March but it would be a minor refresh.
Features of the VR Headset
Apple's Vision Pro is powered by the visionOS software that is described by the tech giant as "the first OS designed for the ground up for spatial computing." The software's three-dimensional interface also frees apps from the boundaries of a traditional display, according to TechCrunch.
Contrary to other VR headsets on the market, Apple's Vision Pro has a battery pack that is not built into the device itself. It instead has a wire from the rear that connects to an external battery pack. It is said to provide up to two hours of use or it can be plugged into the wall for all-day use.
The price of the tech giant's VR headset is set at $3,499, which makes it out of reach for most of Apple's typical audience. However, the target for the product seems to be developers and other workplace professionals. But many enthusiasts will surely find a way to justify a purchase of the product, said Android Authority.
